On 7th May around 40 women met with Rabbi Cohn, the Chairman and a member of the Board to share their thoughts and concerns regarding issues that affect the women of our shul, and to give the Rov an opportunity to respond point by point.

One of the main topics discussed concerned how the views of women can be heard, and be counted. Members of the meeting explored what had changed to make this come to the fore in recent months. A number of views were offered but one recurring theme was that the recent issues in the wider community have highlighted the importance of making sure that every voice is heard, and particularly those of women. A further reason was suggested that the recent EGM had brought into focus the rules of voting set out in the shul’s Constitution, and in particular the condition that only male members are eligible to vote. Many felt that there was a disjoint between our prevailing rules and longstanding developments in broader society, as well as changes to the voting rules in other institutions. Finally, while in many cases it’s possible for a married couple to cast a joint vote through the husband, this is not always practical, particularly in the cases of single women, divorcees and widows.

The Rov was in complete agreement with the underlying theme that the views of women need to be heard, and he pointed out that it was essential that we find a way to do this, and that it is done in a manner consistent with the legacy of Kedusha that has existed in our shul and in the way our membership have always conducted themselves. To this end he encouraged the women present to establish a forum to focus specifically on the needs of women. He expressed his view that a joint AGM for men and women would not be consistent with the standard of Kedusha that the shul prides itself on. An alternative proposal was made that there could be a separate AGM for women, and all votes would be counted. The Rov supported establishing a system of voting and strongly encouraged that this should be accompanied by a regular forum for gaining and promoting input throughout the year. He also distinguished between issues that are specifically relevant to women on which it would be inappropriate for men to vote, and issues specific to men on which it would inappropriate for women to vote. A number of practical details about this proposal were not finalised at the meeting, and a remit was given to the proposed women’s forum to develop a full and robust proposal in conjunction with the Rov and the Board.

Karina Katz, Julia Greenberg and Alexia Lyons, as well as Samantha Taylor whom they have co-opted, offered to establish the women’s forum and would appreciate all those who were present, and all those who were not but wish to be involved in any capacity, to provide their details.

The meeting concluded with the Chairman reaffirming the view that the success of the shul depends on catering for everyone, particularly women and youth. The Rov thanked everyone for attending and expressed his gratitude that so many had spared their time to attend, make a positive contribution, and tackle vital issues that affect the future of our shul.